Nursing Graduates Urged to Uphold Professional Standards, Seek Jobs Beyond Government

What the report says

Four hundred and thirty-two nursing and midwifery graduates at Ntungamo College of Nursing and Midwifery were advised to maintain professional standards, focus on patient care and consider job opportunities outside government service. The guidance came during the college’s fourth graduation ceremony, which drew government officials, parents, stakeholders and other guests.

Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports and the chief guest, told the graduates that nursing and midwifery require accuracy, responsibility and commitment because mistakes can affect patients. He also rejected social attitudes that treat the professions as a fallback for poor performers, and urged the new graduates to keep aiming higher rather than settling into comfort after training.

Ogwang also encouraged parents to keep supporting their children’s education and called on the graduates to embrace sacrifice and look for work beyond waiting for public-sector posts. The event also included the commissioning of a new classroom block and a 70-seater bus for the institution, developments that are expected to improve learning and transport.

The college principal, Wilber Tukamuhabwa, said the institution still faces major operational constraints, including water shortages, a need for a standby generator, more accommodation for students and a staffing gap he described as substantial. Ogwang said the concerns would be addressed, while the college acknowledged support from Mama Janet, the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders.